Family matters more than money. Apparently, Alex Cohen played a key role in Juan Soto’s decision to choose the Mets.
Soto’s free agency decision once had stunned the baseball world. And with all the other teams in the blend at the time, it was rather certain that he’d go towards the highest bidder.

Wait, was that how it played out though? He turned down a kind of offer that was larger than the Mets’ staggering $765 million deal.

MLB insider Andy Martino took it to X, and according to him, “multiple teams, including Boston, had a willingness to exceed [the Mets’] high offer if they knew Soto would agree.” This makes it evident that the idea of the Mets winning solely through financial power isn’t true. Interestingly, Soto was drawn to the Mets because of “the family-friendly vibe that Alex Cohen has established.”

Alex, Steve Cohen’s wife, has played a significant role in creating a welcoming environment within the organization. For Juan Soto, that’s where it all makes a difference.

While money might always be a factor, Soto’s decision is a testament that personal comfort and a sense of stability can tip the scales. The Mets didn’t just sign a star; they made him want to be a part. In today’s high-stakes free agency rivalry, that might just be the ultimate advantage.

An MLB analyst predicts the Mets will be a major threat with Soto and Alonso

Now that Juan Soto is finally in the mix, the Mets’ offense looks like a dominant powerhouse. Soto, paired with Pete Alonso, who remained with the team after months of speculation, gives the Mets one of the most explosive lineups in the league.

According to Fox Sports analyst Ben Verlander, the Mets are about to dominate. On his show Flippin’ Bats with Ben Verlander, he gushed over their potential. “Lindor, Soto, and Alonso are an incredible top end of the lineup… no matter how you look at it, they’re going to be really good.” For Verlander, Juan Soto’s entry is a game-changer. He noted that if Soto and Alonso settled well together, the Mets could be a major threat and one of the toughest teams to beat in the National League.

Verlander also emphasized the depth of the roster. He highlighted the young talents such as Mark Vientos, Francisco Alvarez, and Brett Baty. “I’m excited about the New York Mets for a lot of different reasons,” he added. “Mark Vientos was fantastic once he came up in 2024. I think Francisco Alvarez takes a big step forward. Brett Baty has looked really good in spring training; is this the year he figures it out?”

What makes their lineup even more explosive is the fact that they are well-rounded. Only a few standout players aren’t enough; it’s about their whole offensive unit working together as a team. With Alonso’s power, Soto’s discipline, and Lindor’s ability to perform under pressure, the Mets have an elite trio.

The Mets have a solid pitching rotation. The astounding addition of Dylan Cease or Sandy Alcantara could provide them the depth to go deep into the postseason. And well, they already have veterans like Kodai Senga and Sean Manaea who bring experience.

Verlander noted that the mix of youth and experience makes the Mets extremely lethal. He explained, “You have Soto and Alonso, who are already proven stars, but then you mix in young guys who are hungry to prove themselves—it creates a perfect storm.” The balance of rising potential and established experience could be finally something that elevates the Mets into championship contention.

The Mets are no longer just any contender. They have built a roster that has the ability to make a deep playoff run.